CTA Warns of Costs and Fatigue in Expanding Emergency Alert Systems
The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has expressed concerns about expanding the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). In a recent recommendation to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), CTA warned of potential drawbacks, including high costs and alert fatigue.
CTA argues that adding more regulations to the current EAS and WEA rules could be expensive and time-consuming. It suggests that expanding these systems might create more problems than it solves.
The association's worries are not unfounded. In an October 2023 test, 95% of U.S. adults received or heard an emergency alert via their phone, demonstrating the current system's effectiveness. Nearly all Americans (98%) own a cellphone, further emphasizing the reach of WEA.
CTA also raised the issue of alert fatigue. With most Americans receiving emergency and public safety information through WEA on their mobile devices, rather than terrestrial radio or broadcast television, there's a risk of over-reliance and potential desensitization to alerts.
CTA's recommendation highlights the need for careful consideration before expanding EAS and WEA. While these systems are highly effective in reaching Americans, potential challenges such as cost, time, and alert fatigue should be addressed to ensure their continued usefulness and reliability.
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